Inventory of Fixtures: When to Repair Yourself and When to Let the Landlord Handle It?

The inventory of fixtures is a crucial step in renting property, both when moving in and moving out. It allows you to assess the condition of the property and determine any necessary repairs. But who pays for what? Tenant or landlord? This article guides you through the responsibilities of each party, with concrete examples to help you make the right decisions.

Understanding the Difference Between Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

In general, tenant responsibility concerns minor repairs and routine maintenance, while landlord responsibility encompasses major repairs due to wear and tear, construction defects, or major events.

Tenant Responsibility: Routine Maintenance and Minor Repairs

The tenant is responsible for the normal maintenance of the property and minor repairs. This includes, for example:

Minor plumbing repairs: replacing seals, unblocking pipes (unless the problem is structural).
Minor electrical repairs: replacing a light bulb, outlet, or switch.
Floor maintenance: regular cleaning, repairing minor scratches or marks on the parquet floor (if resulting from normal use).
Wall maintenance: filling small holes (made for hanging frames, for example), cleaning fingerprints.
Maintenance of provided appliances: regular cleaning, replacing small parts (filters, seals).
Maintenance of heating systems: Bleeding radiators

Practical tip: Keep invoices for your purchases and repairs. This can be useful in case of a dispute during the exit inventory.

Landlord Responsibility: Major Repairs and Wear and Tear

The landlord is responsible for more significant repairs related to wear and tear of the property, construction defects, or major events (storm, flood, etc.). This may include:

Roofing problems: leaks, replacing damaged tiles.
Major plumbing problems: blocked pipes due to wear and tear, major leaks.
Major electrical problems: general short circuit, replacing the electrical panel.
Central heating problems: boiler breakdown, replacing radiators.
Insulation: thermal or sound insulation problems.
Water infiltration: from the roof, walls, or foundations.
Wear and tear of equipment: replacing a boiler or water heater at the end of its life.

Concrete example: If your boiler breaks down in the middle of winter, it is the landlord's responsibility to have it repaired or replaced, even if it was in perfect condition during the entry inventory. If the boiler breaks down due to a lack of maintenance you should have done, that is your responsibility.

When to Repair Yourself?

If the damage is your responsibility (minor repairs and routine maintenance), it is often best to repair it yourself, provided you do it correctly. Here's why:

Avoid disputes: By repairing the damage, you avoid arguments and disagreements with the landlord during the exit inventory.
Control costs: You can choose the professional (or do it yourself) and compare prices.
Maintain the property in good condition: A well-maintained property is more pleasant to live in.

Practical tip: Take photos before and after repairs. Keep invoices and receipts. This will prove that you have carried out the repairs properly.

Important: Make sure the repairs are carried out properly. If you are not sure, call a professional. A poorly done repair could cost you more in the end.

When to Let the Landlord Handle It?

In the following cases, it is imperative to notify your landlord and let them manage the repairs:

Major repairs: As mentioned above, repairs related to wear and tear, construction defects, or major events are the responsibility of the landlord.
Complex repairs: If you do not have the necessary skills to carry out the repairs yourself, it is best to let a professional do it.
Repairs that could worsen the situation: If you intervene without the required knowledge, you risk further damaging the property and incurring liability.

Practical tip: Inform your landlord in writing (registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt or email with read receipt) and keep a copy of your message. Describe the problem precisely and request a prompt intervention.

Important: Do not wait until the last minute to report problems to your landlord. The sooner you notify them, the more time they will have to organize the repairs, and the less likely you are to have unpleasant surprises during the exit inventory.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

The best way to avoid disputes during the exit inventory is to maintain the property well throughout the rental period. Here are some tips:

Clean the property regularly: Regular maintenance prevents the accumulation of dirt and prevents damage.
Report problems to your landlord promptly: Do not let small problems get worse.
Carry out minor repairs yourself: Change light bulbs, fill small holes, etc.
Ventilate the property regularly: This helps prevent humidity and mold problems.
Follow the operating instructions for the equipment: Avoid damaging them by improper use.

In Conclusion

The key to a successful exit inventory lies in good communication with your landlord and regular maintenance of the property. By knowing your rights and obligations, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and get your deposit back without any problems. Remember: prevention is better than cure!

Inventory of Fixtures: When to Repair Yourself and When to Let the Landlord Handle It?